Manchester United keen on signing midfielder dubbed the next Roy Keane - Reports

Manchester United are reportedly keen on signing Sunderland midfielder Chris Rigg, who has been dubbed the next Roy Keane by the club's scouts. Keane notably took over the captain's armband from Eric Cantona in 1997, leading the club to win the Premier League three seasons in a row.

Now, according to reports from HITC (via Football Transfers), the scouts at Old Trafford see the Sunderland midfielder as a player with massive potential. They have followed him since he broke into the first team at the age of 15, and two years later, he remains an exciting prospect.

Rigg came through Sunderland's academy, playing 18 games for their under-18 side and scoring three goals with four assists. He graduated to the under-21 side, where he played 13 games, and he has since played for their first team, making 32 appearances and scoring four goals.

It has been claimed that the Red Devils made their move for Rigg during the summer transfer window. However, he signed his professional contract with the Black Cats. This will not stop Manchester United, though, as they are expected to make another move for his services in January.

They won't be the only club interested in Rigg, with Sunderland reportedly preparing themselves to receive quite a few offers in the near future. Clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool, and Borussia Dortmund have all been linked to the 17-year-old talent.

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Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag speaks about Kobbie Mainoo contract situation

While the Red Devils are looking at the young Chris Rigg, their eyes are also fixated back home on sealing a contract extension for Kobbie Mainoo. The England international only broke into the Red Devils' first team last season as an 18-year-old, impressing with 33 games in all competitions.

He helped them win the FA Cup with two goals in six games, with his performances getting him a call-up to the national team for Euro 2024. There have been reports that Mainoo could be getting a contract extension as a reward for his brilliance, and now, Erik ten Hag has spoken about it publicly.

The Manchester United manager told the press (via Football Transfers):

"We are very happy with his development. The management has to make a decision about it. Of course, we do this in cooperation. It is something that we always have to discuss when a player is progressing. When we have news, we will let you know."

Manchester United will hope they can hold onto the brilliant youngster in the long term, as they look to sign other young talents for their midfield.